Leashing the Chaos

[madimpossibledreamer]

Main Points:
Buffy/Yakuza AU
Chapter Summary: Ripper sets some rules.
Word Count: 320
Rating: Teen, Ethan makes some nasty suggestions and Ripper hurts him for it

        “I hope you weren’t planning on skipping town without saying goodbye,” Rupert states and grabs Ethan by the scruff of his neck like some misbehaving kitten.
        Somewhat disappointingly, Ethan seems to have some sense of self-preservation, because rather than struggling he goes limp.  “Yes, I can see the impotent Tweed Man within you now.”
        “The spell has side effects.  It’s impossible a pact with a god like Janus doesn’t.  Tell me, now.”  He shakes Ethan a little. 
        “You’re awfully concerned over the Slayer girl.  Don’t tell me you’ve fallen for her, you old dog.  Though she is easy on the eyes…”  The idea is repugnant, given that she is both a child and, in some sense, his charge.  Fortunately, that’s easy enough to deal with.  He merely shifts his hold, choking the man ever so slightly from behind—enough to cut off the offensive words, but not enough to severely impact the man’s breathing.  No matter how tempting a notion squeezing the life out of the bastard is, this is a threat, not an attempt to kill the man.
        “I care about my Slayer, yes, but your little stunt also endangered my son,” he snarls and realizes that this is the first time he’s actually referred to Xander as such.  They have an odd relationship.  “I will not tolerate antics putting any of the children in danger.”
        For the first time during this little debacle, Ethan seems unsure, shifting around—and Rupert actually lets him this time.  “Your son?  Who was the lucky mother, then?”
        Giles doesn’t bother to answer, knowing the question stems from jealousy.  Ethan had never really been one to share.  “Side effects.  Now.”
        Ethan swallows.  “Some echoes may remain.  The more chaotic, the more likely a few select changes are permanent—but such a gift of power should only help them survive, here…”
        “I’ll be watching, and if you’ve done permanent damage…” And then Rupert leaves.